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In November 2024, English number 10 Ford cut a dejected figure at Allianz Stadium.

He was called upon as a substitute to support the hosts close out a memorable triumph versus the All Blacks, but instead was unable to score a crucial penalty plus a drop-goal attempt as England were beaten by two points.

After those expensive errors, Ford had to work hard to secure another chance to bring victory for England.

His playing time was limited to 25 minutes during this year's Six Nations however a series of excellent displays, particularly on the summer tour of Argentina and the United States when the Smith players were away on Lions team responsibilities, returned him solidly among starting candidates.

The veteran player not only repaid Steve Borthwick's faith by selecting him facing the Kiwis, plus the club standout delivered a player-of-the-match performance to help the hosts to a first win over New Zealand at home for the first time since 2012.

The pivotal moment came when Ford nailed back-to-back drop-goals right before half-time.

It helped England overcome a 12-0 deficit to narrow the gap to 12-11 at the break, ahead of the manager's skilled reserves once more performed after halftime to support England to a convincing 33-19 win.

"Recognition should be offered to the veteran members in our team, especially George," the manager commented. "In that moment as he scored those drop-goals, he controlled the match just incredibly.

"Twelve months ago I thought George came on and played really well [versus the All Blacks].

"A attempt hit the upright and he tried a drop-goal under pressure, however his play was outstanding.

"He's an exceptional captain, a brilliant player and an even finer individual. We are fortunate to have him on our team."

Drop-goals 'always in the plan'

New Zealand started quickly in the stadium, building a twelve-point advantage via touchdowns by Fainga'anuku and Taylor.

Subsequent to Ollie Lawrence's powerful finish, Ford's consecutive drop-kicks meant the hosts entered the halftime break with the momentum.

"The tough part at those times is, when the scoreboard says twelve to zero, we can stick to our guns and our convictions the best way to play the game is," Ford stated.

"We fought our way back into contention and we knew should we begin the latter half effectively, with the bench coming on, we found ourselves in a good position.

"Although facing fifteen minutes to go, we ended up near our try line with a yellow card, meaning we faced difficulties in that instance too.

"I think that's what elite competition requires - who can deal in those circumstances the best."

Both kicks occurred within a two-minute span as Ford who nailed three drop-goals during a victory facing the Argentine team during the 2023 World Cup, displayed his complete 104-cap experience.

Ford hit two three-pointers for Sale in a Prem game conducted in tough circumstances versus Bath - this demonstrates a talent he is well-practised in.

"The drop-kicks is always in the plan," Ford added.

"The coach is such a phenomenal leader that he is always in my ear about it, and correctly so since three points prove important throughout the match of the game."

Ford guided his side brilliantly around the field the complete contest, executing intelligent kicks - for both attacking and defensive purposes and identifying openings against the defensive line.

His signature tactical bomb also bamboozled the opposing fullback, who couldn't collect.

Having started the national team's triumph over Australia during the autumn series, Ford passed on the number 10 jersey to his replacement for the Fiji victory the following week.

However the greatest challenge on paper this autumn was presented by the multiple World Cup winners, and Ford reclaimed his starting role.

The national side, now on a run of an unbeaten streak of ten, face Argentina this month and curiosity remains to determine if the manager opts with the alternative or continues with Ford.

Whichever decision is made, Ford established with two years remaining prior to global competition that there is plenty of play remaining within him.